A wrongful‑death lawsuit filed in Connecticut courts accuses High Meadow Resort in Granby of negligence that led to the drowning of a 14‑year‑old Massachusetts boy during a school field trip in June. The complaint says the resort allowed more than 150 students into a pool that is certified for a maximum of 105 swimmers because the diving area was closed.
Alleged safety failures
The suit alleges that the overcrowded conditions made it difficult for swimmers to move safely and prevented lifeguards and staff from adequately monitoring those in the water. According to the complaint, the boy, identified as Marshall‑Woodard, disappeared beneath the water in the shallow end and was later pronounced dead.
In addition to the crowding issue, the complaint states the resort had not received the required annual authorization from the Farmington Valley Health District to open the pool for the season. The resort allegedly operated the pool with only three lifeguards on duty while hundreds of students sought access.
Health‑district inspection
Two days after the drowning, officials from the Farmington Valley Health District inspected the pool, found multiple deficiencies and ordered the facility to remain closed pending further review. The district’s findings are part of the public record cited in the lawsuit.
Legal claims
The family is seeking damages for wrongful death, asserting that the resort acted recklessly by knowingly allowing the pool to exceed capacity and by failing to provide adequate supervision. The complaint claims the defendants were aware of the safety risks associated with overcrowding but chose to proceed anyway.
Resort response
NBC Connecticut has reached out to High Meadow Resort for comment, but the resort has not responded at the time of this reporting.
Community impact
The incident has raised concerns among parents, school officials and local residents about the safety of recreational facilities that host large groups of students. The lawsuit underscores the importance of adhering to health‑district regulations and maintaining appropriate staffing levels to protect children during school‑organized activities.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the drowning, and the case is expected to proceed through the state court system.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut (Hartford) — read the source article.
